State to close summit over Makapuu Lighthouse to build stairway

The state is planning to close the summit lookout overlooking Makapuu Lighthouse in east Oahu for a few days next week while it builds a new stairway in the area.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources plans to build temporary wooden stairs connecting the lookout stairway to a more stable area on the hillside.

The existing stairway landing has deteriorated and drops steeply to a rocky and uneven dirt area on the hillside. This makes it hard for park users to conveniently and safely approach the summit lookout.

The new wooden stairway will be about five feet wide and cover nearly 25 feet of the rocky area.

The work is due to begin on Monday. Other scenic viewpoints near the lighthouse will remain open.